Early dynamic splinting for extensor tendon injuries

Extensor tendon injuries are traditionally splinted with no motion for 3 to 4 weeks after repair. This may result in limitation of flexion because of extensor tenodesis at the site of repair. To prevent this, we used a dynamic splinting program opposite to the one that is used for flexor tendon repair, with an outrigger splint holding the fingers in extension and allowing full active flexion. Fifty-two patients who had extensor tendon repairs in the area from the wrist to the middle of the proximal phalanx were treated. Motion was begun 2 to 5 days after repair and was continued for approximately 5 weeks. No tendon ruptures occurred, and all patients recovered full flexion.